1986 Toyota Camry review from North America
"I wish I had been able to drive it for the first 353,000 miles!"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Previous owner had replaced several items due mostly to mileage more than age. The majority of these were "normal" replacements performed at normal intervals. Most serious of these were clutch/pressure plate/clutch slave cylinder. These were only replaced once to my knowledge and are currently providing good service. Air conditioning is not working due to an accident the previous owner was involved in. We have only had to purchase new tires and a battery. Also had the exhaust collector replaced because my daughter "high centered" while learning to drive in our driveway. This would not have been necessary except that the collector was very rusty. Age/mileage/road salt?
General comments?
The car is lacking in ground clearance. While this improves handling, it makes for anxious moments on rough pavement or gravel roads.
There is considerable body rust as the previous owner drove long distances to work over winter roads. This individual was the original owner and was so impressed with this car that he pruchased two later models. His wife and children learned to drive a "stick" in this car.
We were somewhat surprised at the mileage of the vehicle. However, previous experience with Toyota vehicles prevented this from being unbelievable. At 355,000 miles this car is still formidable on the road. It may be a bit slow off the line, but it catches up nicely, and still achieves no less than 27 mpg. Have had as high as 33 mpg. Considering its age and mileage, it's easy to overlook the few things that are not functioning. Great car. I would love another in slightly better condition.
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| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 2002 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | Don't Know |
| Performance marks | 7/10 |
| Reliability marks | 9/10 |
| Comfort marks | 6/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 8/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 353000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 355000 miles |
| Previous car | Jeep Cherokee |
| Date of Entry | 13th January, 2003 |

